Cal Poly’s baseball program has taken a decisive step toward the future by integrating KinaTrax, a $500,000 motion‑tracking system, into its training regimen. The technology captures every nuance of a pitcher’s release and a batter’s swing, translating raw data into actionable insights that have already helped Nick Bonn refine his mechanics and Dylan Kordic tighten his hitting.
A Technological Leap for the Mustangs
What sets the Mustangs apart is that they are the first West Coast collegiate team to deploy KinaTrax, a distinction that has attracted support from Major League Baseball and a network of donors eager to see the program push the envelope. The system’s data is processed and then handed back to Cal Poly staff, who work with a small team of analysts to turn numbers into on‑field adjustments.
The investment reflects a broader shift in baseball toward data‑driven decision making, echoing the introduction of the pitch clock and the push for automated ball‑strike calls. By leveraging KinaTrax, Cal Poly not only aims to prevent injuries but also to give its players a competitive edge as they prepare for the next level of competition.
The initiative also underscores the collaborative effort behind the scenes, involving coaches, analysts, and support staff such as Brandon Solari, Larry Lee, Seth Moir, and Mike Wickham, who help manage the system and integrate its findings into daily practice.